Canes: Basic Guide

A cane is a stick used to give you support and balance when walking. Most canes are made of metal, wood, or plastic. You may need to use a cane if you are weak on one side of your body or have balance problems. The cane may decrease your pain when walking because it takes weight off your leg and joints. Using a cane can also help reduce fatigue.

• Standard canes: This type of cane is usually made of wood or metal. The cane may be 34 to 42 inches (86 to 107 cm) long and may have a rounded crook handle. This cane is easy to use and is usually not very expensive. It's recommended to get a cane with a wooden or plastic handle instead of metal, as metal handles may slip from your hand when you sweat, or get too cold in colder weather.
• Straight-handled canes: Also known as "T-handle canes," they are made of wood, plastic, or metal. This cane may be more beneficial if your hand is weak, offering better steadiness. It's crucial to adjust the cane to the correct height for you.
• Broad-based canes (Quad Canes): These lightweight metal canes have 3 or 4 short legs, offering more support and stability. These canes can stand upright when not in use. They are especially useful for those with balance issues.

• Decreases the load on the affected leg and assists with balance
• Canes provide the least amount of stability among walking aids
• Should be held in the opposite hand to the affected leg
• In winter, an ice pick should be installed at the tip of the cane to improve traction

• Helps decrease the load on the affected leg and supports balance
• Offers more stability than a single-point cane
• Should be held in the opposite hand to the affected leg
• Comes in two sizes: large-base and small-base

• • • • When standing tall with arms at your side, adjust the cane height so that the handle is level with your wrist.

How to get into a chair:

• Stand with the back of your legs against the chair seat.
• Rest the cane against the chair.
• Reach back with both hands to grip the chair arms.
• Put your weaker leg slightly off the floor.
• Put all your weight on your stronger leg.
• Slowly sit down and slide backward into the chair.

How to get out of a chair:

• Hold your cane with your stronger hand.
• Grasp the arms of the chair.
• Put your stronger foot slightly forward.
• Lean slightly forward and push on the chair arms to raise yourself.
• Stand with your cane about 4 inches (10 cm) to the side of your stronger foot.
• Wait a few seconds to adjust before you begin walking.

• Place the cane about 4 inches (10 cm) to the side of your stronger leg.
• Put weight on your stronger side.
• Move the cane 4 inches (10 cm) in front of your stronger leg, bringing your weaker leg forward at the same time.
• Using the cane to help keep your weight off your weaker leg, move your stronger leg ahead.
• Your heel will be just beyond the tip of the cane.
• Repeat these steps and try to walk straight.

Note: The affected leg should move forward with the cane.

Going up stairs: "Up with the good"

• Place the sound leg up one step.
• Bring the cane and affected leg up to the same step as the sound leg.
• Repeat the pattern.

Going down stairs: "Down with the bad"

• Place the cane and affected leg down one step.
• Bring the sound leg down to the same step.
• Repeat the pattern.

• Wear shoes with rubber soles (e.g., tennis shoes). Avoid slippers as they can slide off your feet and cause falls. Do not wear shoes with slippery leather heels or soles.
• Ensure the floor is safe by keeping it clean, dry, and well-lit. Remove throw rugs and secure loose carpet edges to prevent falls.
• Stand for a few seconds before you start moving with your cane to adjust your balance. Do not walk if you are feeling dizzy.
• Look straight ahead while walking to avoid tripping over obstacles.
• To carry light items, use a backpack or bag. Avoid carrying heavy things while using your cane.

• The base of a quad cane may be too large for some steps.
• Turning the cane sideways may allow all four legs to rest on the step.
• Using a handrail along with the cane increases safety on stairs.